Senator Doris Turner has secured $615,000 to support projects along Route 66, market local destinations and attractions, and promote Illinois internationally.

Senator Turner said that Springfield has a number of attractions that bring visitors from across the country and continuing to make strong investments to drive the tourism industry helps boost local economies.

Springfield has received nearly $160,000 through the International Tourism Grant to be used for tradeshows and sale missions, memberships, marketing campaigns, and digital and print media.

Grant funding will also be used to help evolve the Springfield’s History Comes Alive Program into a multi-season program. The History Comes Alive Program is an annual living-history event series that features costumed historical interpreters, performances, and tours centered on Abraham Lincoln’s hometown.

The Program will offer curated experiences in spring and fall in addition to the current summer.

Senator Turner called Springfield the heart of Route 66 in the state and said they have a great opportunity to showcase its ties to the capital city and Central Illinois.

For more information on the History Comes Alive Program, CLICK HERE.